New Mexico Delegation Unites for Flood Insurance Reform

Press Release

Yesterday, Congressman Steve Pearce introduced HR 6017, which removes the 30-day waiting period for newly purchased National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policies in areas affected by wildfires on federal lands. Congressman Martin Heinrich and Congressman Ben Ray Lujan joined as original cosponsors. Senator Jeff Bingaman sponsored the same measure in the Senate, where Senator Tom Udall joined as an original cosponsor.

"With the monsoon season on the horizon, communities near the fires in the Gila and Lincoln National Forests need immediate protection from potential flooding," Pearce said. "This bill provides greater protection to homes and livelihoods, and ensures the integrity of the NFIP system. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to pass this important legislation."

"Many communities across New Mexico have been devastated by fires, leaving them extremely vulnerable to flooding during the monsoon season," Congressman Luján said. "This important legislation enables homeowners to get the flood protection they need in a timely manner and prevents a delay in the process that New Mexico families cannot afford with monsoon season around the corner."

"Wildfires can rapidly change watershed conditions and put homeowners in flood hazard areas that previously didn't exist," said Rep. Heinrich. "This bill is a common-sense solution that will help protect New Mexico's homeowners and their families from some of the damage that results from wildfires."

Congressman Pearce sent a letter to Financial Services Committee Chairman Spencer Bachus, requesting that HR 6017 be considered during a scheduled Committee hearing on Wednesday, June 27.

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